Opportunity

Christopher Loren Thompson, MD, MHI

I live three blocks from Sparrow Hospital. I moved here after my residency at Sparrow but I do not currently work at the hospital. I really liked the historic houses and tall trees along Jerome Street.

I have seen a slow decline of the neighborhood, which I would attribute to Sparrow. For example, there are fewer kids and people because Sparrow bought up property that now sits empty. Eastern High School is the primary example, but my child’s daycare was also closed.

I offered to show Sparrow executives these images in person, but they declined. After neighbors also had several fruitless discussions with Sparrow management, I decided to put these images online for city council members and Lansing residents.

Under new management, Sparrow is finally acknowledging that it has contributed to blight.

We advocate for those who live and work in Lansing to ensure that it becomes a vibrant, beautiful city. Even in the city, the natural environment can be restored, providing clean air, water, and natural spaces to all.